How to Say “Happy Christmas” in Irish

By Jaxon Brodie • Updated October 4, 2026

Nollaig Shona

The English phrase "happy Christmas" is translated into Irish as Nollaig Shona.

Nollaig Shona is a greeting used to wish someone a joyful Christmas holiday.

Did you know?

In some Irish-speaking communities, the period of Christmas is often discussed in relation to 'An Dara Nollaig', which means 'The Second Christmas'.
In Irish, the adjective Shona undergoes a spelling change from sona because it is mutated by the feminine noun Nollaig.
The word Shona in the phrase comes from a root meaning 'prosperous' or 'lucky', rather than just 'happy'.

Example conversation

Cian and Aoife meet on the street before the holidays.

Cian

Dia duit, a Aoife! Nollaig Shona!
Hello, Aoife! Happy Christmas!
Aoife

Dia duit, a Chian. Nollaig Shona agat!
Hello, Cian. Happy Christmas to you!
Cian

Go raibh an lá go hálainn.
May the day be beautiful.
Aoife

Go raibh, a Chian. Slán go siorai!
Thanks, Cian. Goodbye!

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About The Author

Jaxon Brodie

Dia duit! I'm Jaxon, your friendly guide to everything Irish. As a writer, I share my love for the Irish language, helping you translate words and phrases. Not just linguistic pursuits, but I also nurture a deep interest in mythology, folklore, and occasional lemon-picking! When I'm not indulged in writing or decoding linguistic mysteries, you'd find me enjoying a game of pool, fostering my passion for marine life, or exploring Ireland's southwest shadows. My motto is simple - every word in any language holds a fascinating story, it’s only a matter of diving in! Slán go fóill!

Jaxon BrodieHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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